WPLG, the Berkshire Hathaway-owned station in Miami-Fort Lauderdale, will dramatically increase its local news programming starting August 4th. This expansion follows the loss of its ABC affiliation, leading to a shift to independent operation under its existing “Local 10” branding.
The station will expand its weekly live news and sports programming from 56 hours to a substantial 93 hours. Weekday news will air from 4:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., noon to 1 p.m., 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., and 9 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Weekend coverage will include 5 a.m. to 11 a.m., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and 11 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. New Saturday and Sunday evening local sports programming will also be added.
This significant change coincides with ABC's move of its Miami affiliation to WSVN’s digital subchannel 7.2 on the same date. WPLG, an ABC affiliate since the 1960s, cites financial terms proposed by ABC as incompatible with its goals. “We have posted dozens of positions and more to come.”, said WPLG President and CEO E.R. Bert Medina. “WPLG is the legacy broadcaster in South Florida and we will continue to be the premiere local station in this market as we build the local broadcast model for the 21st century. In addition to the news expansion, we will create other live, local content throughout the year. Today we are announcing phase one of our expansion. There is much more to come,” Medina added.
While the complete programming schedule is yet to be revealed, the emphasis on news suggests a stronger focus on local production and syndicated content. The station also operates MeTV South Florida, the Heroes & Icons Network and Local10.com.